However, the virus is known for being linked to microcephaly - an illness that causes babies to be born with abnormally small heads, oftentimes with brain damage. But, while we know all about how pregnant women and their babies may be affected by the disease, the question as to whether or not our dogs or cats can be infected is a fair one to consider.

However, just because your pet isn't likely to become seriously ill from Zika doesn't mean he or she is totally safe from other diseases carried by mosquitoes - if your pet is bitten by a mosquito carrying the dirofilaria immitis parasite, they may be at risk of contracting heartworm disease.